Everything you need to know about ordering a bespoke timber staircase from DAB Stairs — from timber choice and lead times to delivery and building regulations.
We manufacture both standard construction stairs and space-saving paddle flight stairs in a variety of timbers. Our most popular options include Pine, Oak, Ash, and Walnut. Each timber staircase is made to measure in our workshop, ensuring perfect fit and finish for your space.
Softwood staircases (like Pine) are more economical and ideal for carpeted stairs or painted finishes. Hardwood staircases (like Oak, Ash, or Walnut) offer superior durability, distinctive grain patterns, and are perfect for exposed wood finishes. Both options are manufactured to the same high standards and building regulations.
Yes, we specialise in space-saving paddle stairs perfect for loft conversions. These innovative designs maximise space efficiency while maintaining full compliance with building regulations. We can manufacture these in both softwood and hardwood options.
A closed string staircase has a solid side panel (the string) that conceals the ends of the treads and risers. An open string — sometimes called a cut string — has the string cut away so the ends of the treads are visible, giving a more contemporary, lighter appearance.
Yes — every staircase we produce is made to measure. Whether you need a traditional straight flight, a quarter-turn or half-turn staircase, a curved design, or a space-saving paddle stair, our team can manufacture it to your exact specification and timber preference.
To provide an accurate quote, we need: floor-to-floor height, floor thickness, total width available, desired timber type, and style preferences (traditional or modern). You can submit these details through our online quote form or contact us directly.
Our typical lead time is 2–3 weeks from approved drawings. This covers both hardwood and softwood staircases. Complex or curved designs may take slightly longer. We will confirm your exact lead time when you receive your quote.
Yes! While we're a supply-only manufacturer, we provide detailed measuring guides and technical support to help you or your contractor get exact measurements. Our team can advise on design options, regulations compliance, and material selection to ensure your project's success.
Yes, every staircase comes with detailed assembly instructions and technical drawings. While we don't offer installation services, our documentation is comprehensive and suitable for professional installers or experienced DIY enthusiasts.
No — DAB Stairs is a supply-only manufacturer. We produce your staircase to your exact specification and deliver it ready to be assembled by your joiner or builder. This keeps our prices competitive and ensures you get the best from both a specialist manufacturer and your trusted tradesperson.
We offer delivery throughout London, Essex, and Hertfordshire. Delivery costs are calculated based on distance and staircase size. Alternatively, you can collect your staircase from our workshop in Hertfordshire. All staircases are carefully packaged to ensure safe transport.
Absolutely. While we serve Hertfordshire, Essex, and London most regularly, we make regular joinery deliveries nationwide. Please contact us to discuss your location and delivery requirements.
All staircases are supplied flat-pack and carefully packaged to prevent damage in transit. Components are individually protected and clearly labelled, and we include a full set of assembly instructions and technical drawings with every order.
Yes — all new staircases in England and Wales must comply with Approved Document K of the Building Regulations. This covers the maximum rise (220mm), minimum going (220mm), maximum pitch angle (42°), headroom clearance (2.0m minimum), and handrail heights. Our Building Regulations guide explains the key requirements in full.
Under Approved Document K, the maximum rise (height of each step) for a domestic staircase is 220mm, with a minimum of 150mm. The minimum going (horizontal depth of each tread) is 220mm, with a maximum of 300mm. The maximum pitch angle is 42°.
A minimum clear headroom of 2.0 metres is required throughout the full length of a staircase, measured vertically from the pitch line. For loft conversion staircases (where space may be restricted), there is a relaxation that allows a minimum of 1.8 metres at the centre of the stair width.
Building regulations require a handrail on at least one side of a staircase with more than one riser. Handrails should be between 900mm and 1,000mm above the pitch line. For stairs with more than two risers open on both sides, handrails are required on both sides.
Our team has been making bespoke timber staircases for over 40 years. If your question isn’t answered here, we’re always happy to help — just get in touch.
UK staircase regulations explained — rise, going, pitch, headroom and handrail requirements.
New to staircases? Learn the names of every component in plain language.
Browse our full range of softwood and hardwood staircase styles.
Send us your measurements and we'll come back with a detailed quotation.
Get in touch with our team today. We'll guide you through timber selection, measurements, and design — then manufacture your staircase to exact specification.